Sometimes I'm asked why the subjects of my photos are not smiling very often. I think an image can create more interest if it is somewhat mysterious. Viewers are far more likely to wonder "why is she so sad" than "what is she so happy about".

Either that or it's because I'm so depressing to be around.

Shooting a model up close with a wide angle lens is usually something to avoid. I did this photo in a fairly small bedroom and didn't have much choice. Amy has long, attractive legs, so the exaggeration of the lens angle might have this a more interesting photo.

Occasionally I photograph someone in their own home. This woman a great skylight in her kitchen that provided an interesting overhead light.

Another photo of this model in her own home.

Sometimes I think that the background and environment in the photo is as important as the model. This photo of Stephanie Grant was taken in a Victorian era building in London. I like the plasterwork makes an interesting texture in the background of this photo.

A portrait using only spotlights and reflectors for that 1940s, 50s look.

More of the high contrast old Hollywood style lighting.

I like to give a model a prop sometimes. It can help to have something to hold on to. I often use coffee cups, cigarettes (if the model smokes) or telephones. I have some old dial phones that I've used, but because this is 2010, this model is texting.